MEA Information and Knowledge Management Initiative

Purpose

The Multilateral Environment Agreement Information and Knowledge Management (MEA IKM) initiative seeks to develop harmonized and interoperable information systems in support of knowledge management activities among MEAs for the benefit of Parties and the environment community at large.

Background

In 2006, UNEP's Division of Environmental Law and Conventions (UNEP/DELC) initiated a knowledge management programme for Multilateral Environment Agreements (MEAs). This programme mostly consisted of various projects focusing on sharing strategic information, harmonization of national reporting, and developing issue-based modules for coherent implementation of MEAs.

In 2009, UNEP/DELC increased its commitment to knowledge and information management. This was inspired by the renewed emphasis placed on information and communication tools throughout the United Nations system, as evidenced by the recent JIU and OIOS reports on Knowledge Management (JIU/REP/2007/6 and E/AC.51/2006/2) as well as on the reiterated calls for better integration of MEAs to contribute to more effective international environmental governance (JIU/REP/2008/3).

The implementation of the MEA IKM initiative is guided by a Steering Committee and a Working Group.